He’s already getting in his car and calls back, “Sure, I can. You’re their aunt. Who else would take them? Mom and Dad are too old. Besides, you owe me for letting you stay with me that summer after college.”

That was literally ten years ago, and I paid him rent. He drives off while I’m standing there with two crying toddlers clinging to my legs. I bring them inside because what else am I going to do? Leave them on the porch? They’re scared and asking for “Daddy.” I give them juice boxes and put on cartoons while I call Dan. No answer. I call fifteen times. Nothing. I text him that he needs to come back immediately.